Celebrating Excellence: Highlights from the 45th Annual Laurens County Chamber of Commerce Dinner & Awards Gala

The Laurens County Chamber of Commerce 45th Annual Dinner & Awards program was held on Thursday, February 29 on the campus of Presbyterian College. The even marks the culmination of another impactful year for the Laurens County Chamber, celebrating achievements in workforce development, small business empowerment, and destination marketing.

The Master of Ceremonies for the evening was Representative Mark Willis. Dr. Anita Gustafson, the 20th President of the college and the first women welcomed those attending and provided a brief update regarding all things PC.

PC is dressed in new banners touting “Go True Blue.”  This phrase is a way of talking about identity and what it means to be a Blue Hose. Gustafson went on to discuss the four elements: transformational education, true Blue camaraderie, championship spirit, and heart of service.

At the Annual Chamber Awards and Dinner Meeting, Amanda Munyan, President and CEO of the Laurens County Chamber of Commerce, delivered a brief speech expressing gratitude to attendees, recognizing key contributors like Representative Mark Willis and President Gustafson. Munyan highlighted the Chamber’s growth, thanked outstanding team members, and acknowledged the vital role of the Board of Directors in the organization’s success.

She reviewed the Chamber’s 2023 achievements, including a 23% increase in annual revenue, successful events, and the launch of the Small Business Empowerment Program. Munyan commended the countywide beautification partnership and Keep Laurens County Beautiful, while outlining upcoming projects for 2024, supported by grants.

Noteworthy efforts by the Revolutionary War 250th Sestercentennial committee and the Chamber’s commitment to leadership development and agriculture support were briefly discussed. Munyan emphasized the Chamber’s strength in building connections, collaboration, and diversity and inclusion initiatives.

In conclusion, Munyan expressed confidence in the Chamber’s ongoing mission fulfillment, thanked attendees for their dedication, and affirmed the commitment to innovation, collaboration, and service excellence for Laurens County’s success.

Here is a list of the very deserving winners:

Officers of the Year:

Deputy William Miller – Laurens County Sheriff’s Office

Officer David Lollis – Clinton Police Department

Corporal Kendric Waterman – Laurens Police Department

District Teachers of the Year:

Katherine Waldrop – District 55

Olivia Gardner – District 56

Cecil O. Davenport Citizenship Award:

Jackeline Alcudia – Clinton High School (Winner)

Anna Barrett Penland – LDHS (Nominee)

Campbell Sherman – Laurens Academy (Nominee)

Laurens County Public Power Scholarship Winners:

Chandler Dailey – Clinton High School

Jayuanna Johnson – LDHS

Laurens Electric Cooperative Community Initiative Impact Award:

LDHS Future Farmers of America (FFA)

Robert M. Vance Small Business of the Year:

Caleb and Jessica Satterfield of Rootimentary (Winner)

Other nominees: The Vestibule Coffee & Tea, The Pasture Restaurant, Precept Staffing

Ambassador of the Year:

Lee Anne Kitchen from Roper Staffing (Winner)

Other nominees: Jenny Turner-Thornwell, Cortni Motes-Laurens County Administration, Melinda Gray-Palmetto Heritage Real Estate

Keep Laurens County Beautiful Community Partner Award:

Laurens County Water & Sewer Commission

Duke Energy Citizenship & Public Service Award:

Dr. Byron Parker

Spirit of the Chamber Award:

Susan Raynal, Tallman, and Heather Tiller from Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices C. Dan Joyner, Realtors

In the heart of Laurens County, the 45th Annual Dinner & Awards program hosted by the Laurens County Chamber of Commerce served as a powerful reminder of the community’s unwavering spirit and commitment. The collective achievements recognized during the evening echoed a resounding theme – the strength found in unity. The diverse array of winners, representing excellence in various fields, exemplifies the richness and diversity that defines Laurens County. The evening’s celebration affirmed that when a community comes together with a shared vision, the possibilities for positive change are boundless.

Here’s to another year of making a meaningful difference in Laurens County and beyond.